2003 Cadillac Escalade

Programming Guide for 2003 Smart Keyless Entry Remote Fob – Cadillac Escalade

Important Notice: The 2003 Escalade allows onboard programming of keyless entry remote fobs. All remotes, including existing ones, must be programmed during the same session. Any remote not reprogrammed will be erased from the system.

Programming Procedure:

  • Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle Ensure all vehicle doors are fully closed before beginning. This is necessary for the programming mode to activate correctly.
  • Step 2: Insert the Ignition Key Place the key into the ignition cylinder. Do not turn it yet.
  • Step 3: Hold the Power Unlock Button Press and hold the power UNLOCK button on the driver's door panel. Continue holding this button until instructed to release it in Step 9.
  • Step 4: Prepare for Rapid Ignition Cycling You must now move quickly through Steps 5 to 8. Have one hand ready on the ignition key and the other holding the unlock button.
  • Step 5: Turn the ignition to the ON position (as far as possible without starting the engine).
  • Step 6: Turn the ignition OFF.
  • Step 7: Turn the ignition ON again.
  • Step 8: Turn the ignition OFF a second time.
  • Step 9: Release the Unlock Button Release the power UNLOCK button on the driver’s door panel. If successful, the door locks will automatically cycle (lock and then unlock). If the locks do not cycle, the vehicle did not enter programming mode. In that case: Remove the key from the ignition Open the driver’s door Return to Step 1 and repeat the process
  • Step 10: Program the First Remote Press and hold both the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the remote simultaneously. Hold both buttons for up to 30 seconds, or until the door locks cycle again, indicating the remote has been successfully programmed.
  • Step 11: Program Additional Remotes Repeat Step 10 for each additional remote you wish to program, including any that were previously functional. All remotes must be programmed during the same session.
  • Step 12: Exit Programming Mode Turn the ignition key to the ON position once more to exit programming mode. Then remove the key from the ignition.
  • Step 13: Test All Programmed Remotes Verify functionality by testing the lock, unlock, and trunk/tailgate release buttons on each remote.

Additional Considerations:

All Remotes Must Be Reprogrammed Together: Any remotes not programmed during this session will no longer function.

Check Battery Status: Ensure each remote has a working battery to prevent failed programming.

Timing Is Critical: Steps 5 through 8 must be completed within a few seconds to properly activate programming mode.

System Capacity: The vehicle can store up to four remotes at once.

Typical Duration: The full procedure takes only a few minutes when performed correctly.